KABUL - Afghan government and business leaders have made good progress on two plans to boost trade, create employment opportunities and alleviate poverty.
The National Export Strategy and the National Trade Policy are part of Advancing Afghan Trade -- a programme funded by the European Union and implemented by the International Trade Centre (ITC).
ITC said the proposed National Export Strategy cleared two hurdles on Monday when it was presented to the Council of Ministers and the Executive Committee of Private Sector Priorities.
At meetings on Nov. 27, chaired by Chief Executive Dr. Abdullah, participants commended the strategy as well designed and participatory, involving government and private business representatives.
On Nov, 25, more than 70 industry leaders, small business owners and public sector representatives agreed on key objectives intended to increase exports – part of a five-year plan to be included in the nascent National Trade Policy.
In a statement from ITC, Minister of Commerce and Industries Humyoon Rasa said: “The strategies have been developed with the objective of increasing Afghanistan’s exports and domestic production by promoting a balanced relationship between trade integration and sustainable domestic economic development.
Atiq Nusrat, chief executive officer of the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ACCI), said the Export Strategy and Trade Policy had been a longstanding necessity for the country.
The National Export Strategy sets out clear goals, includes a detailed five-year plan of action, and features a management system that will allow for improved logical teamwork and decision-making.
It seeks to expand trade and boost the socio-economic development, increase the capacity of businesses, attract investment and improve the circumstances of women and youth.
The National Trade Policy is intended to address challenges holistically with its main objective being the better integration of Afghan businesses in regional value chains and in the global economy.
The recommendations put forward by industry officials and small business owners on steps needed to make such progress will be included in the final version of the policy, which has to be approved by the High Economic Council.
Eric Buchot, an ITC officer, said the National Export Strategy,  thanks to support from the European Union, already accommodated budgeting for the implementation of critical pilot activities that have been developed through the design process.
Rajesh Aggarwal, ITC’s chief of trade facilitation and policy for business, said the National Trade Policy provided a road map through which the country’s Ministry of Commerce and Industries could lead broad-based government and private sector progress. (Pajhwok)